500+ Cumin Seeds, Cuminum cyminum, Jeera Spice Herb

Cumin Seeds — Cuminum cyminum

This packet contains 500 seeds of Cuminum cyminum, the annual herb commonly known as cumin. Kew recognizes the species as native from Iraq to Afghanistan and associated primarily with subtropical conditions. The plant is cultivated for the dry fruits commonly called cumin seeds. Seeds for propagation are supplied; no plants are included.

Sowing

Cumin suits a long period of relatively cool, dry growing weather and does not tolerate frost. In a suitable climate, sow directly into a sunny, well-drained bed. Where the season is short, start in individual cells to reduce root disturbance and transplant carefully after frost danger has passed. Sow shallowly, cover with a thin layer of fine soil or compost and water gently. Maintain even moisture during establishment without leaving the medium saturated. Avoid heavy, compacted soil and provide good air movement around seedlings.

Care

Thin crowded seedlings so light reaches the foliage. Water when the upper soil begins to dry, reducing unnecessary leaf wetness and avoiding prolonged waterlogging. Keep the bed free of competing weeds while plants are small. Flowering and maturity depend on local temperature, day length and cultivation, so no fixed harvest date or yield is promised. If retaining fruits, allow the flower heads to mature and dry before collecting them under locally suitable conditions. This listing identifies the crop but makes no culinary quality or food-safety guarantee.

Storage

Keep unused sowing seed in its labelled packet inside a sealed container in a cool, dry, dark place. Protect it from humidity, heat and pests.